French 'feeling good' about 2015

THE mood of the French has improved for the third year in a row, according to a survey.

In a slice of positive news for Francois Hollande as he begins a new year media charm offensive, RTL has reported that 52% of people describe themselves as being “optimistic” about the year ahead despite the gloomy economic climate.

The figure is a 2% increase on last year, and eight points more than at the beginning of 2012.

But there was a note of caution for the President, as the survey also found that unemployment remains a concern for many people, with 80% saying bringing the jobless figure down should be the government’s top priority in 2015.

Other areas of concern included social security (65%), economic growth (64%), and the fight against terrorism (59%).

The Harris Interactive online poll found that people under 35 and those whose monthly income was €5,000 or more were most likely to feel positive about what 2015 has in store, while those to the right of the political spectrum said they were more likely to be pessimistic - 56% of respondents who are UMP supporters, and 71% of Front National supporters.

Those out of work were also less likely to be optimistic about 2015, with only 41% saying they felt positive about the year to come.

Photo: Rory McLeod